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African safari in Ngorongoro Crater by Ian Cochrane

Serengeti & Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Safari Adventure

Tour Length20 days
Priced from pps $3062 R57499 £2423 2862 A$4686 C$4189 NZ$5155 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Camping Overland Tour

  • Max. Group Size 22 Travellers
  • Traveller Age Range 18 to 39 Years
  • Departs from Nairobi, Kenya
  • Ends at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Accommodation Lodge & Camping Combo
  • Transport Overland Vehicle / 4x4 Vehicle / Ferry / Microbus
  • Wildlife Big 5, Elephant, Exceptional Birding, Leopards, Lions, Migration Safari (Seasonal), Wildlife Conservation Experience & More
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2024 Itinerary Overview 2025 Info

This Serengeti to Victoria Falls Safari Adventure combines three of Africa's best game parks with the tropical beaches of Zanzibar Island, the sandy shores of Lake Malawi and the natural wonder of Victoria Falls.

Experience unforgettable game viewing in the world-famous Serengeti National Park and wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater of Tanzania, as well as in the truly wild South Luangwa National Park of Zambia. Travel through the diverse and beautiful landscapes of Africa in a cutsom-built overland adventure truck, encountering rich cultures along the way. Grab the chance to do thrilling adventure activities - from bungee jumping and scuba diving to Big Five bush walks and whitewater rafting on this incredible overland journey designed specifically for young, free-spirited travellers.

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Full 2024 Itinerary 2025 Info

Day 1: Nairobi - Kenya

It all begins in Nairobi, the bustling capital of Kenya. Meet your fellow travelers and guide this evening at 18:00, and find out more about the safari adventure ahead.

On day one of this Serengeti & Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Safari, you are free to explore Nairobi, doing optional activities, before and after the introductory meeting.

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Nairobi

Day 2: Nairobi to Arusha - Tanzania

And we are off! This morning our African safari heads south through the Maasai lands of rural Kenya in the customized overland adventure truck. Straight to Tanzania, we go, crossing the border and continuing to Arusha, at the base of Mount Meru.

  • Travel: Nairobi – Arusha (10h/286km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 3: Arusha to Serengeti National Park - Tanzania

Today we travel to the Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania, one of the most famous safari regions in Africa.

First up - the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, an African safari destination of epic proportions. This Serengeti Safari is conducted in 7-seater 4x4 safari vehicles with experienced local guides. The safari vehicles feature large sliding windows and pop-up roofs providing great views and photo opportunities.

Entering the big game country of the Serengeti, we lookout for wildlife en route to our camp in the central region of the national park. Look out over the rolling savannahs where wildlife roams freely, taking in the wide horizons and abundance of animals in this quintessential African safari wilderness.

  • Travel: Arusha – Serengeti National Park (8h/320km)
  • Included Activity: Serengeti Safari (en route to camp)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 4: Serengeti Safari & Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania

Wake up bright and early this morning, setting off into the wilds of Serengeti on a morning game drive. Scanning the seemingly endless rolling savannahs we encounter a host of wild animals, experiencing one of the best wildlife parks in Africa.

If you pre-booked the hot-air balloon safari in Serengeti then this morning you will drift over the savannahs instead of taking the game drive. Your guide will confirm when the balloon safari takes place as the timing changes.

Then we pack up camp and drive out of Serengeti National Park, into the fertile Ngorongoro Highlands. This afternoon we arrive at our camp at the lip of the crater, enjoying stunning views over the world's largest unflooded caldera. Ngorongoro Crater is considered one of the best places for game viewing in Africa, given the high density of African wildlife found here.

  • Travel: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro (4h/160km)
  • Included Activities: Serengeti Morning Game Drive
  • Optional Activities: Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha - Tanzania

Early this morning we drive down the steep crater walls in a 4x4 safari vehicle for an action-packed morning of game viewing. The high concentration of wild animals inhabiting the crater ensures superb wildlife sightings. Ngorongoro Crater is a good place to spot lions, rhinos, buffalos, elephants, wildebeest, hyenas, hippos, and cheetahs, along with an abundance of other large mammals.

After roaming the game-rich crater floor we drive out of the crater and back to Arusha. Those who booked the Zanzibar Express will fly to Zanzibar Island the following morning, instead of driving from Arusha to Bagamoyo. The Zanzibar Express option on this Serengeti & Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Safari includes transfers, breakfasts, flights, and accommodation overnight in Arusha tonight and Stone Town tomorrow.

  • Travel: Ngorongoro – Arusha (4h-5h/200km)
  • Included Activities: Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife Safari Drive
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 6: Arusha to Bagamoyo - Tanzania

Today we drive south through Tanzania to Bagamoyo on the East Coast of Africa. We pass Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, continuing through farmlands and varied landscapes until we reach the Indian Ocean coastline.

Recently declared a World Heritage Site, Bagamoyo served as a key trading port on the coast of East Africa in the late 19th century.

  • Travel: Arusha – Bagamoyo (12h/590km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Please note: Those opting for the Zanzibar Express transfer to the Arusha airport, fly to Stone Town in Zanzibar, and spend the afternoon exploring on their own. The Zanzibar Express option includes an extra night of accommodation in Stone Town, rejoining the rest of the safari group tomorrow afternoon.

Day 7: Bagamoyo to Nungwi Beach - Zanzibar Island

This morning we travel down to the chaotic port city of Dar es Salaam, which was once a small fishing village. From the Dar es Salaam we catch a ferry across to Zanzibar Island where we drive from Stone Town to Nungwi village in the north.

Nungwi Beach is our picturesque beachside base on this African safari adventure. From here you can explore the tropical island of Zanzibar, so kick off your shoes and take it easy. Take a swim in the gentle waves of the warm Indian Ocean and lie back on the white sands of the beautiful beaches. Walk into the village to see the island life of Zanzibar, or jump straight into the marine world on a scuba dive or snorkel.

  • Travel: Bagamoyo – Dar es Salaam (1h30m-2h/60km), Dar es Salaam – Stone Town (Ferry 2h) & Stone Town – Nungwi (1h30m)
  • Optional Activities: Snorkelling & Scuba Diving at Nungwi
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8: Nungwi Beach Resort - Zanzibar Island

Hello, tropical beach time! After your adventures in the rugged African bush, a bit of rest and relaxation on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar Island is just the right thing.

Go swimming, take a nap, and stroll on the sandy beaches - take time out in this tropical paradise. For those with more energy to burn today, there are snorkeling and scuba diving boat trips and shore reefs to explore. Other options include visiting Jozani Forest Reserve or embarking on a village or cultural tour. You can also take a sailing trip in traditional dhow for a uniquely East African experience.

  • Optional Activities: Sailing trips, diving, snorkelling, island hopping boat trips, village tours, cultural tours and more.
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9: Nungwi to Stone Town - Zanzibar Island

Head back down to historic Stone Town and spend some time getting to know this unique and culturally diverse East African city. On day nine we do a spice tour that takes us to nearby plantations to see, taste and smell the exotic spices of Zanzibar. Find out more about the spices that are grown on the island - black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, breadfruit, jackfruit, vanilla and lemongrass - learning more about the central role the spice trade has played in the history of Zanzibar and its ancient slave trade.

When in Stone Town, roam the winding streets of the old town where Arabic influences linger strongly, musing at the old buildings and places of worship. Visit the vivid markets, drink super strong coffee sold by street vendors, sample sweetmeats at quaint cafes and browse the shops filled with art, antiques, beautifully printed sarongs, curios, spices and other treasures.

  • Travel: Nungwi – Stone Town (1h30m)
  • Included Activity: Spice Tour
  • Optional Activity: Stone Town Guided Walking Tour
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10: Stone Town to Baobab Valley - Tanzania

Catch the ferry boat back to Dar es Salaam where we hop back onto our adventure vehicle and drive west to Baobab Valley.

In Baobab Valley we camp on the banks of the Ruaha River, on the outskirts of the Udzwungwa Mountains National Park.

  • Travel: Stone Town – Dar es Salaam (Ferry 2h/200km) & Dar es Salaam – Baobab Valley (6h/360km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 11: Baobab Valley to Iringa - Tanzania

On the road again, we drive south into the tea-growing region of the Tanzanian Highlands.

Our stop for today, Iringa. Arriving in the pleasant city we visit a community project where local artists with disabilities make crafts. Browse and get some souvenirs and have a quick cup of coffee in the cafe at the center.

  • Travel: Baobab Valley – Iringa (5h/180km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 12: Iringa to Chitimba, Lake Malawi - Malawi

On day 12 of our Serengeti & Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Safari, we cross into our third country - Malawi. Travel straight to the scenic shores of Lake Malawi, one of the African Great Lakes of the East African Rift Valley.

Our first destination in Malawi is Chitimba Beach, a lovely sandy stretch of Lake Malawi's shores, flanked by mountains in the distance. Watch the flickering lights of the fishermen's boats to see why Lake Malawi is known as 'the Lake of Stars'.

  • Travel: Iringa – Chitimba (9h/235km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 13: Chitimba to Kande Beach - Malawi

Drive south along the shoreline of massive Lake Malawi, stopping at Kande Beach. Unwind and take a stroll on the lakeshore, enjoying the sub-tropical climate and pretty scenery. Enjoy a drink at the local bar, have fun with your group and mingle with other travellers.

  • Travel: Chitimba – Kande Beach (5h)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 14: Kande Beach - Malawi

Spend the whole day at Kande Beach meeting local people in the village, lazing on the beach, or taking a walk. Swim in the clear blue waters, or snorkel to see the cichlids and other marine creatures of Lake Malawi.

This evening we have dinner at a local home, getting a taste of traditional Malawian food and warm hospitality.

  • Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Village Walks & Swimming
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 15: Kande Beach to Chipata - Zambia

Travel into a new African country today - Zambia. We make our way through rural farmlands and bushveld to Chipata in Eastern Zambia.

Formerly called Fort Jameson, Chipata is a busy town often visited en route to South Luangwa National Park.

  • Travel: Kande Beach – Chipata (7h/400km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 16: Chipata to South Luangwa - Zambia

Today we take the relatively short drive to Mfuwe, near South Luangwa Park. Along the way, we stop at a local initiative, the Tribal Textiles Market and Courtyard Cafe. First, we visit the workshop and browse the local crafts, finding out how the initiative benefits local communities and wildlife conservation. After our quick tour, we have a tasty lunch at the locally-run Courtyard Cafe before continuing to our camp.

Later this afternoon you can embark on an optional game drive in the beautiful South Luangwa National Park, which hosts numerous wild animals and over 400 bird species.

  • Travel: Chipata – Mfuwe (2h30m/150km)
  • Included Activity: Textile Market Visit & Cafe Lunch
  • Optional Activity: South Luangwa Game Drive
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 17: South Luangwa Park - Zambia

Day 17 is set aside for exploring the South Luangwa National Park area of the scenic Luangwa Valley.

This is one of Africa's finest safari destinations - an untouched haven inhabited by high concentrations of game and some 400 species of birds. Big herds of elephant and buffalo are drawn to the Luangwa River, which hosts an abundance of hippos and crocodiles. Other wildlife in South Luangwa includes sizeable populations of Thornicroft's giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelopes such as kudus.

You can embark on an optional walking safari in season, with South Luangwa being famous for its game viewing walks. You can also head into a local village for a cultural experience. Then there is also the option of setting off on a night game drive in search of nocturnal animals, including leopards.

  • Optional Activities: South Luangwa Game Drives, South Luangwa Walking Safari (seasonal) & Village Visits
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 18: South Luangwa to Lusaka Area - Zambia

Soak up the scenery as we drive through Zambia to a private game farm near Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. We set off early in the morning, following rough roads to the game park, where zebras, buffalos and antelopes are often spotted.

Relax at the pool and unwind in the bar at the end of a long day on the road.

  • Travel: Mfuwe – Lusaka (12h/750km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 19: Lusaka to Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

On day 19 of our Serengeti & Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Safari, we continue further southwest. Later, we cross into Zimbabwe and head to Victoria Falls in our overland adventure truck.

You can begin by visiting one of Africa's most unforgettable natural wonders - the spectacular Victoria Falls. Fill your senses and feel the power of the falls as you stand in the spray of this thunderous curtain of water. End your day off with a relaxing optional cruise along the Zambezi River, watching a serene sunset and looking out for wildlife and birds.

  • Travel: Lusaka – Victoria Falls (7h/543km)
  • Optional Activities: Visit Victoria Falls, Zambezi Sunset Cruise
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

Day 20: Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

Our African Safari Adventure ends this morning. Time to say your goodbyes, taking with you memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

We recommend spending some extra time at Victoria Falls in order to take advantage of the exhilarating array of optional activities on the go. If you didn't visit Vic Falls yesterday, don't miss a visit to the 'Smoke that Thunders' today, after the safari has finished. Optional post-safari adventure activities include bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, flights over Victoria Falls and many more.

  • Optional Activities: Zambezi Whitewater Rafting, Victoria Falls Bridge Bungee Jump, Vic Falls Helicopter or Microlight Flights, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Tram Rides, Gorge Swinging, and more.

African Safari Notes:

  • Age restriction: 18 to 39-year-olds only
  • Accommodation: Participation camping (13 nights), fully-serviced camping (2 nights), simple hotels (4 nights)
  • Transportation: Overland Adventure Vehicle (OAV), 4x4 safari vehicles, mini buses, ferry, walking
  • Group size: maximum 22 people (average of 20)

Wildebeest Great Migration Explained

Please note that the Wildebeest Great Migration is seasonal. As a natural wildlife phenomenon, it is fluid and unpredictable. For this reason, seeing the Great Migration cannot be guaranteed.

The wildebeest and other wild herbivores migrate between Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania. These herds move in a massive circular route covering some 1200 miles (1931km). It is a continuous movement of wildlife that can be seen in different areas at different times of the year. During certain phases of this annual trek the animals disperse or slow down, whilst at other times the migration picks up speed, with the herds becoming larger and denser. Not only does the Wildebeest Great Migration vary from place to place and season to season but the movement of these large wildlife herds varies from year to year.

Please talk to a travel expert from African Budget Safaris about seeing the Wildebeest Great Migration on your safari to find out more. Also, check out our detailed article about the Great Migration in Serengeti and Masai Mara.

Optional Extras and Excursions

For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.

KENYA

Nairobi (pre-tour)

  • Bomas of Kenya
  • Giraffe Centre
  • Karen Blixen Museum
  • Nairobi National Park
  • National Museum
  • Railway Museum
  • The Carnivore Restaurant 
  • David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

TANZANIA

Zanzibar Island

  • Stone Town City Tour
  • Snorkeling 
  • North Coast Tour
  • Sailing Trip 
  • Dolphins Tour
  • Scuba Diving

MALAWI

Lake Malawi

  • Village Tours
  • Snorkeling
  • Horse riding
  • Guided Walk to Livingstonia

ZIMBABWE

Victoria Falls (post-tour)

  • Falls Tour in Zambia or Zimbabwe (excludes visa & park fees)
  • Flights over the Falls: helicopter / microlight (15mins / 30mins)
  • Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) - Morning Breezer / Lunch / High Tea (excludes transfers)
  • Livingstone Tour
  • Mukuni Village visit
  • African Culture Tour (markets, cooking lunch, languages)
  • Chobe River Photographic Safari (Botswana) - includes transfers, park fees, drinks, camera use (Nikon D7000 with 150-500mm zoom lens), photography permit and a seat on the boat.

Child Policy

This tour does not take children.

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For confirmed pricing on these optional items, please drop us an enquiry

KENYA

Nairobi (pre-tour)

  • Bomas of Kenya
  • Giraffe Centre
  • Karen Blixen Museum
  • Nairobi National Park
  • National Museum
  • Railway Museum
  • The Carnivore Restaurant 
  • David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

TANZANIA

Zanzibar Island

  • Stone Town City Tour
  • Snorkeling 
  • North Coast Tour
  • Sailing Trip 
  • Dolphins Tour
  • Scuba Diving

MALAWI

Lake Malawi

  • Village Tours
  • Snorkeling
  • Horse riding
  • Guided Walk to Livingstonia

ZIMBABWE

Victoria Falls (post-tour)

  • Falls Tour in Zambia or Zimbabwe (excludes visa & park fees)
  • Flights over the Falls: helicopter / microlight (15mins / 30mins)
  • Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) - Morning Breezer / Lunch / High Tea (excludes transfers)
  • Livingstone Tour
  • Mukuni Village visit
  • African Culture Tour (markets, cooking lunch, languages)
  • Chobe River Photographic Safari (Botswana) - includes transfers, park fees, drinks, camera use (Nikon D7000 with 150-500mm zoom lens), photography permit and a seat on the boat.
+Included in the Tour Price
  • Serengeti Safari & Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
  • 3-day Zanzibar Island Trip & Guided Spice Tour 
  • Local dinner experience (Lake Malawi)
  • All transport between destinations & to/from included activities
  • Meals as per the itinerary
  • Accommodation (camping, resort, and hotel) on tour
+Not Included in the Tour Price
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not listed as included
+Departure Dates

Scheduled Tour Departures
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